Bicycle shift notification apparatus

ABSTRACT

A bicycle shift notification apparatus is provided with a transmission state determining component, a bicycle derailleur and a controller. The transmission state determining component determines a current operating state of a bicycle transmission having a plurality of speed stages. The bicycle derailleur produces a notification based on a determination of the current operating state by the transmission state determining component. The controller is operatively coupled to the bicycle derailleur. The controller activates the bicycle derailleur to produce the notification in accordance with a preselected notification pattern based on determining that a predetermined condition exists. A sound is produced by actuation of the bicycle derailleur.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention generally relates to a bicycle shift notification apparatus. More specifically, the present invention relates to a bicycle shift notification apparatus for producing a notification based on a determination of the current operating state of a bicycle transmission, which has a plurality of speed stages.

Currently, most bicycle transmissions are manually operated by a shift operating wire connected between a manual transmission and a manually operated shift operating device mounted on the handlebar. The rider operates the shift operating device to selectively pull or release the shift operating wire which, in turn, operates a derailleur of the transmission in the desired manner. More recently, bicycles have been provided with an electric drive train for smoother and easier shifting. Electric drive trains may be operated manually or automatically. In manually operated electric drive trains, usually, a button or lever on a shift control device mounted to the bicycle handlebar is manipulated so that a gear shift command is output to operate a motor for upshifting or downshifting the bicycle transmission. In automatically operated electric drive trains, the gear shift commands are generated automatically based on various running conditions of the bicycle.

In some manual and automatic bicycle transmissions, a notification device such as a display is provided to show current gear positions. Also some bicycle transmission control systems include a sound-producing device such as a buzzer or the like for producing a sound each time the transmission is operated to change a gear position of the transmission. For example, in the case of an automatic transmission, a sound can be produced after operating the motor to change a gear position of the transmission. As a result, the rider is informed of the shifting operation only while the actual shifting operation is being conducted. Another example of a shift notification apparatus is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,774,771 (assigned to Shimano Inc.). In this patent, every time a gear shifting operation occurs, the apparatus informs a rider of an upcoming shifting operation in a bicycle transmission based on a running condition of the bicycle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Generally, the present disclosure is directed to various features of a bicycle shift notification apparatus that notifies a rider of an upcoming shifting operation in a bicycle transmission upon determining that a predetermined condition exists. The bicycle shift notification apparatus can be used with motorized bicycle transmissions.

Basically, the invention is a bicycle shift notification apparatus that includes: a transmission state determining component that determines a current operating state of a bicycle transmission that has a plurality of speed stages; a bicycle derailleur that produces a notification based on a determination of the current operating state by the transmission state determining component; and a controller operatively coupled to the bicycle derailleur, wherein the controller activates the bicycle derailleur to produce the notification in accordance with a preselected notification pattern based on a determination that a predetermined condition exists.

In another aspect, the controller determines whether the predetermined condition is satisfied, and the predetermined condition includes at least that the bicycle transmission has reached a speed stage before a speed stage of a synchro-shift speed point.

In another aspect, the bicycle derailleur includes a motor, and the motor actuates the bicycle derailleur, and sound made by the bicycle derailleur when the motor actuates the bicycle derailleur according to the preselected notification pattern provides the notification.

In another aspect, the bicycle derailleur includes a chain guide configured to move a drive chain by operation of the motor, and when producing the notification, the controller activates the bicycle derailleur so that the notification is produced but the drive chain is not moved by the chain guide during the notification.

In another aspect, the controller activates the bicycle derailleur so that the motor produces the notification without contact between the chain guide and the drive chain.

In another aspect, the bicycle derailleur includes a chain guide, and the notification pattern includes moving the chain guide in opposite directions without contacting a drive chain with the chain guide.

In another aspect, the controller activates a motor of the bicycle derailleur to produce the notification before a start of a shift to a synchro-shift speed point from a speed stage immediately adjacent to the synchro-shift speed point.

In another aspect, the bicycle derailleur is a front derailleur.

Basically, the invention is a bicycle shift notification apparatus that includes: a motorized transmission device that has a plurality of speed stages; and a controller operatively coupled to the motorized transmission device, wherein the controller activates a motor of the motorized transmission device to produce an audible notification in accordance with a preselected notification pattern based on a determination that a predetermined condition exists.

In another aspect, the motorized transmission device includes a chain guide for moving a drive chain, the chain guide is moved by the motor, and the predetermined notification pattern involves operating the motor and moving the chain guide in an operation other than a gear shifting operation.

In another aspect, the motorized transmission device includes a chain guide, which is configured to move a drive chain by operation of the motor, and when producing the audible notification, the controller activates the chain guide according to the preselected notification pattern so that the audible notification is produced without contact between the drive chain and the chain guide.

In another aspect, the preselected notification pattern is selected such that, when the audible notification is produced, the controller operates the motor to produce sound while maintaining a current gear ratio of the motorized transmission device.

In another aspect, the controller determines whether the predetermined condition is satisfied, and the predetermined condition includes at least that the motorized transmission device has reached a speed stage before a speed stage of a synchro-shift speed point.

In another aspect, the controller activates the motor of the motorized transmission device to produce the audible notification before a start of a shift to a synchro-shift speed point from a speed stage immediately adjacent to the synchro-shift speed point.

In another aspect, the motorized transmission device includes a front bicycle derailleur, and the motor actuates the front bicycle derailleur.

In another aspect, the motorized transmission device includes a chain guide, and the preselected notification pattern includes moving the chain guide in opposite directions without contacting a drive chain with the chain guide.

In another aspect, the bicycle shift notification apparatus includes a transmission state determining component that is operatively coupled to the motorized transmission device, the transmission state determining component determines a current operating state of the motorized transmission device, and the predetermined condition is a condition of the motorized transmission device.

In another aspect, actuation of the motorized transmission device serves, in separate operations, to change a gear ratio and to produce the audible notification.

In another aspect, actuation of the motorized transmission device is different in the operation to change a gear ratio than in the operation to produce the audible notification so that sound produced by the motorized transmission device when producing a notification is distinct from that produced when changing the gear ratio.

Other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed bicycle shift notification apparatus will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the bicycle shift notification apparatus.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of a bicycle that is equipped with a bicycle shift notification apparatus in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of a handlebar area of the bicycle showing a road bicycle control (brake/shift) device and a cycling computer coupled to a drop-type handlebar of the bicycle illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram showing an overall configuration of an electric bicycle shift system including the bicycle shift notification apparatus in accordance with the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 4 is an exemplary graphical diagram showing notifications output by the bicycle shift notification apparatus based on the gear positions of the rear and front shifting devices;

FIG. 5 is a synchro-shift gear shifting table for a bicycle shift system having two front chainwheels and eight rear sprockets;

FIG. 6 is a synchro-shift gear shifting table for a bicycle shift system having three front chainwheels and nine rear sprockets;

FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the cycling computer displaying a screen for a rider or other user to customize the predetermined condition for notification;

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the cycling computer displaying a screen for a rider or other user to customize the predetermined notification pattern;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the control processing executed by the controller of the bicycle shift notification apparatus for the automatic shifting mode;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the control processing executed by the controller of the bicycle shift notification apparatus for the manual shifting mode;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the control processing executed by the controller of the bicycle shift notification apparatus when receiving and storing user settings;

FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic perspective view of the front derailleur of the bicycle of FIG. 1; and

FIGS. 13A and 13B are partial bottom plan views of a chain guide of the front derailleur of FIG. 12, where FIG. 13A shows an inner position of the chain guide and FIG. 13B shows an outer position of the chain guide during a notification movement operation.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Referring initially to FIG. 1, a bicycle 10 is illustrated that is equipped with a bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 (FIG. 3) in accordance with a first embodiment. While the bicycle 10 is illustrated as a racing style road bike, the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 is not limited to use with a road bike. The bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 selectively notifies a rider of an upcoming shifting operation upon determining that a predetermined condition exists, as explained below. The predetermined condition is preferably a condition of a motorized transmission device. As seen in FIG. 3, the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 is apart of an electric bicycle shift system 16 in the illustrated embodiment. However, while the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 is illustrated as being used in an electric bicycle shift system 16 that has both a manual shifting mode and an automatic shifting mode, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 can be adapted to be used with a manual cable shift system with certain modifications.

Basically, as explained later in more detail, during riding of the bicycle 10, the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 only notifies a rider of an upcoming shifting operation and/or a current speed stage upon determining that a predetermined condition exists such that the rider is not notified every time a gear shifting operation occurs. As explained later, the notification is preferably settable by the rider and/or other user such that the predetermined condition for triggering the notification can be varied.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, the electric bicycle shift system 16 basically includes a first shift operating device or shifter 20, a second shift operating device or shifter 21, a motorized rear derailleur 22, a motorized front derailleur 23, a cycling computer 24 and a controller 25. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 25 is provided with a mode button 25 a for the rider or other users to select either the manual shifting mode or the automatic shifting mode. Alternatively, the operating mode of the electric bicycle shift system 16 can be selected in other ways such as by using the cycling computer 24 and/or operating buttons on one of the first and second shifters 20 and 21.

Basically, in order to shift gears in the manual shifting mode, the first and second shifters 20 and 21 are selected and operated by the rider to output control signals to operate the rear and front derailleurs 22 and 23 to move a chain 26 laterally with respect to a bicycle frame 27. In the automatic shifting mode, the controller 25 controls the rear and front derailleurs 22 and 23 based on one or more control signals from one or more running condition sensors. Preferably, the controller 25 is configured to output control signals for performing a synchro-shift during both the manual shifting mode and the automatic shifting mode. Of course, the manual shifting mode and the automatic shifting mode can also be set without the synchro-shift feature. As used herein, the term “synchro-shift” refers to a shift in which both the rear and front gear shifting devices (e.g., the rear and front derailleurs 22 and 23) are shifted nearly simultaneously to attain a target gear ratio in response to operation of a single shift operating member or a predetermined running condition occurring. As explained later, the bicycle transmission of FIG. 1 has a total of eighteen speed stages while the synchro-shift feature is not in use. However, while the synchro-shift feature is in use, the bicycle transmission of FIG. 1 has a total of only thirteen speed stages as illustrated in FIG. 4. In the example of FIG. 4, the bicycle transmission of FIG. 1 includes one synchro-shift speed point, which occurs at the shift between the fourth and the fifth speed stages (i.e., counting from the lowest gear ratio to the highest gear ratio).

The bicycle transmission is not limited to a single synchro-shift speed point bicycle transmission. The location and number of synchro-shift speed points depends on the particular gear ratios that can be attained in a particular bicycle transmission. Other words, the tooth count can be changed for the rear sprockets and the front chainwheels to change the gear ratios, which can be attained, and more or less rear sprockets and/or front chainwheels can be changed for increasing or decreasing the attainable number of speed stages. For example, FIG. 5 illustrates a shift table for a bicycle transmission with eight rear sprockets, two front chainwheels and a synchro-shift speed point occurring at the shift between the sixth and the seventh speed stages. FIG. 6 illustrates a shift table for a bicycle transmission with nine rear sprockets, three front chainwheels and two synchro-shift speed points occurring at the shift between the fourth and the fifth speed stages at the shift between the ninth and tenth speed stages. The bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 can be adapted to be used with such bicycle transmissions as disclosed in FIGS. 5 and 6.

In the illustrated embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3, a crank rotational speed sensor 28 and a wheel rotational speed sensor 29 are provided for providing data to the controller 25 for automatically controlling the shifting of the derailleurs 22 and 23. For example, based on the detection signals from the crank rotational speed sensor 28 and the wheel rotational speed sensor 29, the controller 25 outputs control signals to shift the derailleurs 22 and 23 to attain a target gear ratio so that the cadence is maintained at approximately 60-70 RPM, which is a comfortable value for an ordinary person cruising on a bicycle. This type of automatic shifting as well as other types of automatic shifting can be performed by the controller 25. Since conventional automatic shifting can be used, the details of the automatic shifting mode will not be discussed in further detail herein.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the first and second shifters 20 and 21 are brake and shift operating devices in which the first shifter 20 is fixedly mounted on the right-hand side of a handlebar 14 and the second shifter 21 is fixedly mounted on the left-hand side of the handlebar 14. In particular, the first shifter 20 is operatively connected to the rear derailleur 22 and a rear brake 30, while the second shifter 21 is operatively connected to the front derailleur 23 and a front brake 31. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second shifters 20 and 21 are mechanically connected to the rear and front brakes 30 and 31, respectively, using conventional Bowden-type brake cables. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second shifters 20 and 21 are electrically connected to the controller 25 by first and second electrical cables 32 and 33. Alternatively, the front derailleur 23 and the front brake 31 can be connected to the first shifter 20, and the rear derailleur 22 and the rear brake 30 can be connected to the second shifter 21.

As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first and second electrical cables 32 and 33 output shift signals or commands to the controller 25 for controlling the rear and front derailleurs 22 and 23, respectively. The first and second shifters 20 and 21 also receive electrical power from a power supply or battery 34 (see FIG. 3). In particular, an electrical harness 35 is provided between the controller 25 and the power supply 34 such that electrical power is supplied to the controller 25, which in turn supplies electrical power to the first and second shifters 20 and 21 via the first and second electrical cables 32 and 33, respectively. The electrical harness 35 transmits shift signals (FSS, RSS) and position signals for the shifting devices (DATA) between the controller 25 and the rear and front derailleurs 22 and 23. The cables 32 and 33 and the electrical harness 35 may be replaced by a cable that includes only two conductor cables. In this case, PLC (Power Line communication) circuit boards may be included in the controller 25 and the rear and front derailleurs 22 and 23.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the first shifter 20 is attached the curved portion of the handlebar 14, which is a drop-down handlebar in the illustrated embodiment. The second shifter 21 is a mirror image of the first shifter 20 and includes all of the features of the first shifter 20 discussed herein. Thus, the second shifter 21 will not be discussed in detail herein. Of course, it will be apparent from this disclosure that other types of electric shifters can be used as needed and/or desired instead of the type illustrated herein.

Basically, the first shifter 20 includes a base member 40 fixedly mounted on the right-hand side of the handlebar 14 in a conventional manner such as a band clamp as illustrated. A brake lever 43 is pivotally mounted to the base member 40 for operating the rear brake 30 in a conventional manner. The brake lever 43 has a pair of pivotally mounted shift operating members 44 and 45. The shift operating members 44 and 45 are pushed toward a center plane of the bicycle to depress electrical switches SW1 and SW2, respectively. A more detailed discussion of the shift operating members 44 and 45 and the electrical switches SW1 and SW2 can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,854,180 (assigned to Shimano Inc.). While the shift operating members 44 and 45 and the electrical switches SW1 and SW2 of the illustrated embodiment are constructed as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 7,854,180, the first and second shifters 20 and 21 are not limited to that particular construction. In fact, the first and second shifters 20 and 21 can be replaced with mechanical shifters such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,970,816, which has a manual synchro-shift system. Here, operation of the shift operating member 44 normally causes the rear derailleur 22 to perform a downshift operation such that the chain 26 moves to a larger one of the rear sprockets 46, while operation of the shift operating member 45 normally causes the rear derailleur 22 to perform an upshift operation such that the chain 26 moves to a smaller one of the rear sprockets 46. However, operation of the shift operating member 44 may cause the rear derailleur 22 to perform an upshift operation, while operation of the shift operating member 45 may cause the rear derailleur 22 to perform a downshift operation.

Referring to FIG. 3, the basic construction of the rear derailleur 22 will now be discussed. The rear derailleur 22 is basically a conventional electric derailleur that includes a rear control unit 22 a (controller), a motor drive unit 22 b, a position sensor 22 d and a motor 22 e. The rear control unit 22 a, the motor drive unit 22 b and a position sensor 22 d form the rear actuating unit. The rear control unit 22 a is configured and arranged to control the motor drive unit 22 b in response to a shift control signal from operation of one of the shift electrical switches SW1 and SW2 of the first shifter 20. The motor 22 e is configured and arranged to drive a chain guide of the rear derailleur 22. The motor drive unit 22 b is configured and arranged to drive the motor 22 e. The position sensor 22 d is configured and arranged to sense the gearshift position of the rear derailleur (rear shifting device) 22. The position sensor 22 d constitutes one example of a transmission state determining component of the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12. One example of an electric rear derailleur having a position sensor (i.e., a transmission state determining component) is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,137,223 (assigned to Shimano Inc.). While a potentiometer can be used for the position sensor 22 d such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,137,223, the position sensor 22 d is not limited to such a construction.

Referring to FIG. 1, the bicycle 10 has a plurality of rear sprockets 46 for selectively receiving a drive force from the chain 26. Operation of the motor 22 e of the rear derailleur 22 moves the chain 26 between the rear sprockets 46 to change rear gear stages. While the bicycle 10 is illustrated with nine of the rear sprockets 46, the bicycle 10 can be provided with fewer or more rear sprockets 46.

Referring to FIG. 3, the basic construction of the front derailleur 23 will now be discussed. The front derailleur 23 is basically a conventional electric derailleur that includes a front control unit 23 a (controller), a motor drive unit 23 b, a position sensor 23 d and a motor 23 e. The front control unit 23 a, the motor drive unit 23 b and a position sensor 23 d form the front actuating unit. The front control unit 23 a is configured and arranged to control the motor drive unit 23 b in response to a shift control signal from operation of one of the shift electrical switches SW1 and SW2 of the second shifter 21. The motor 23 e is configured and arranged to drive a chain guide 23 f of the front derailleur 23. The motor drive unit 23 b is configured and arranged to drive the motor 23 e. The position sensor 23 d is configured and arranged to sense the gearshift position of the front derailleur (front shifting device) 23. The position sensor 23 d constitutes one example of a transmission state determining component of the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12.

One example of an electric front derailleur having a position sensor (i.e., a transmission state determining component) is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,306,531 (assigned to Shimano Inc.). While a potentiometer can be used for the position sensor 23 d such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,306,531, the position sensor 23 d is not limited to such a construction.

When the motor drive unit 23 b moves the chain guide 23 f of the front derailleur 23 laterally, a sound is produced that is clearly audible to the rider. As described in more detail below, sound produced by movement of the front derailleur 23 in predetermined patterns is used as an audible notification to notify the rider of the state of the bicycle transmission. Thus, actuation of the front derailleur 23, which is a motorized transmission device, serves in separate operations to change a gear ratio and to produce the audible notification. While the notifications produced by the front derailleur are audible, they also may be haptically sensed by the rider, since vibrations produced by the front derailleur 23 are transmitted through the frame 27 of the bicycle to the rider.

Referring to FIG. 1, the bicycle 10 has a pair of front chainwheels 47 for transmitting a pedaling (drive) force to the chain 26. Operation of the motor 23 e of the front derailleur 23 moves the chain 26 between the front chainwheels 47 to change front gear stages. While the bicycle 10 is illustrated with only two of the front chainwheels 47, the bicycle 10 can be provided with more than two chainwheels.

The cycling computer 24 includes a microprocessor, memory and other conventional structures of a conventional cycling computer. Since cycling computers are conventional devices that are well known, the cycling computer 24 will not be discussed and/or illustrated herein, except as modified to accommodate the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12. In particular, the cycling computer 24 is electrically connected to the controller 25 by a cable 48 to receive various data from other components of the electric bicycle shift system 16. The cable 48, can also optionally supply power to the cycling computer 24 as illustrated in FIG. 3. Alternatively, the cycling computer 24 can have its own power supply (e.g., a replaceable battery).

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the cycling computer 24 is a part of the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12. However, the various functions of the cycling computer 24 can be integrated into one or both of the first and second shifters 20 and 21 and/or the controller 25. For example, one or both of the first and second shifters 20 and 21 can be provided with a display for produce a visual indication as a notification for the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12. Thus, the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 is not limited to being used with a cycling computer such as the cycling computer 24 as discussed herein.

The cycling computer 24 has a display 49 for displaying gear positions, speed, traveled distance and other information to the rider as in the case of most cycling computers. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the display 49 of the cycling computer 24 is also used to selectively produce a visual indication as a notification for the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12, as discussed below. Also in the illustrated embodiment, the cycling computer 24 further includes an input port 50 and a plurality of user inputs or control buttons B1, B2 and B3. Alternatively, one or more these components of the cycling computer 24 could be provided on other parts of the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12, as needed and/or desired. The input port 50 is a communication port such as a USB port for attaching a computer to update software and/or modify various operating parameters of the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12. The control buttons B1, B2 and B3 are used by the rider or other users to modify various operating parameters of the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12, as discussed below. While the control buttons B1, B2 and B3 are illustrated as mechanical buttons, the display 49 could be a touch screen with the control buttons being provided on the touch screen.

Referring to FIG. 3, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 25 is operatively coupled to the front derailleur 23 for selectively producing sound to notify a rider based on a determination of a current operating state of the bicycle transmission (e.g., the chain 26, the rear and front derailleurs 22 and 23, the rear sprockets 46 and the front chainwheels 47). Further, the controller 25 is operatively coupled to and activates the front derailleur 23 to produce the notification in accordance with a preselected notification pattern based on a determination that a predetermined condition exists. While the controller 25 is electrically connected to the other parts of the electric bicycle shift system 16 as schematically illustrated in FIG. 3, it will be apparent from this disclosure that wireless communication may be used to operatively couple the controller 25 to other parts of the electric bicycle shift system 16 for receiving data. The controller 25 interprets and executes instructions (data, signals and commands) of the various programs and hardware to direct the operation of the electric bicycle shift system 16. The controller 25 includes a microcomputer 52 that includes a processor 53 and memory 54 for processing the various signals from the various sensors and components of the electric bicycle shift system 16. While the controller 25 is illustrated as a single separate unit, the controller 25 could be part of another component or could be a part of several components (e.g., multiple controllers located in different parts).

Referring mainly to FIG. 4, examples of the notification provided by the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 during operation of the bicycle 10 will now be discussed in more detail. As seen in FIG. 4, the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 can provide several different audible notifications to the rider based on a determination of the current operating state. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4, the gear shift mechanism (e.g., the rear and front derailleurs 22 and 23) of the bicycle has a plural speed stages (e.g. eighteen speed stages without the synchro-shift feature and thirteen speed stages with the synchro-shift feature). A high gear ratio refers to a higher bicycle speed per rotation of the crank arms, while a low gear ratio refers to a lower bicycle speed per rotation of the crank arms.

While the display 49 of the cycling computer 24 may constantly display the current speed stage (i.e., which of the rear sprockets 46 and the front chainwheels 47 are engaged with the chain 26), the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 provides a notification to the rider for only some preselected speed stages but not all of the speed stages. In other words, when the current speed stage becomes one of the preselected speed stages, then the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 will provide a notification to the rider.

For example, in the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4, the controller 25 activates the front derailleur 23, which is a motorized transmission device, to produce an audible notification in accordance with preselected notification patterns based on determining that a predetermined condition exists and does not activate the front derailleur to produce the audible notification when determining that the predetermined condition does not exist. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4, three predetermined conditions (i.e., predetermined speed stages) that are used to trigger the audible notification are as follows: (1) one or more speed stages near a synchro-shift speed point; (2) a lowest speed stage of the speed stage or one or more preceding speed stages immediately adjacent to the lowest speed stage; and (3) a highest speed stage of the speed stage or one or more preceding speed stages immediately adjacent to the highest speed stage. The bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 can provide several different audible notifications to the rider based on a determination of the current operating state of the bicycle transmission to better inform the rider of the current operating state of the bicycle transmission.

Ina synchro-shift operation illustrated in FIG. 4, a single gear shift operation occurs between the front chainwheels 47 and a double gear shift operation occurs in the rear sprockets 46. In such a synchro-shift operation, a large shifting shock can occur such that the gear shift does not shift smoothly if the rider is applying a large pedaling force. Thus, it is beneficial to inform the rider of such a synchro-shift operation before it occurs. Also it is beneficial to inform the rider of when the bicycle transmission is near or at one of the endmost speed stages.

In the lower section of FIG. 4, several different notification patterns A to E of the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 are illustrated. Preferably, as explained later, these different notification patterns can be selectively set by a rider or another user. Of course, the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 is not limited to the illustrated patterns. The bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 produces sound as the notification. In FIG. 4, the size of the star symbol in the lower section of the diagram corresponds to the duration of the notifications produced by the front derailleur 23. Thus, for example, the largest symbol indicates a movement pattern of the derailleur that has a relatively long duration, the smallest symbol indicates a movement pattern of the derailleur that has a relatively short duration, and the intermediately sized symbol indicates a movement pattern of the derailleur that has an intermediate duration, between the relatively long and short durations.

In pattern A of FIG. 4, the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 only provides a total of six notifications: at three lower speed stages prior to the synchro-shift speed point and at three upper speed stages prior to the synchro-shift speed point. These six notifications occur while the bicycle transmission is in speed stages one, two, three, five, six and seven, where speed stage one is the speed stage with the lowest gear ratio. Thus, the controller 25 activates the front derailleur 23 to produce notifications at speed stages immediately adjacent to the synchro-shift speed point and at two speed stages immediately preceding the adjacent speed stages. These speed stages can be determined by the position sensors 22 d and 23 d or processing results. In other words, the notification triggers for pattern A are processing results of the controller 25 and/or position signals from the position sensors 22 d and 23 d.

Preferably, the notifications for speed stages one, two and three are individually distinct from each other, and the notifications for speed stages five, six and seven are individually distinct from each other. For example, as explained above, the individual notifications can differ by duration. Alternatively, the notifications can vary from one another by the pattern of sound produced without altering the duration. Further, the notifications can vary from one another by varying both the duration and pattern of the sound produced by the front derailleur 23.

In pattern B of FIG. 4, the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 only provides two notifications: at one lower speed stage prior to the synchro-shift speed point and at one upper speed stage prior to the synchro-shift speed point. In the pattern B of FIG. 4, the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 only outputs the notifications when the controller 25 has determined to perform the synchro-shift operation, but shortly before (e.g., 0.5 sec.) the synchro-shift operation will actually be performed. In other words, a predetermined delay period occurs between the time of the notification and the time that the synchro-shift operation actually occurs. The notification triggers for pattern B are processing results of the controller 25 preparing to perform a synchro-shift operation. Thus, in pattern B, the controller 25 activates the front derailleur 23 to produce the notification after a gear shifting operation to the speed stage immediately adjacent to the synchro-shift speed point and prior to the synchro-shift operation. Thus, in pattern B, the controller 25 activates a motor 23 e of the front derailleur 23 to produce the notification before a start of a shift to a synchro-shift speed point from a speed stage immediately adjacent to the synchro-shift speed point.

In pattern C of FIG. 4, the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 only provides a total of six notifications: at the lowest speed stage, two speed stages prior to the lowest speed stage, two speed stages prior to the highest speed stage and at highest speed stage. Thus, these six notifications occur while the bicycle transmission is in speed stages one, two, three, eleven, twelve and thirteen, where speed stage one is the speed stage with the lowest gear ratio and the speed stage thirteen is the speed stage with the highest gear ratio. These speed stages can be determined by the position sensors 22 d and 23 d or processing results. In other words, the notification triggers for pattern C are processing results of the controller 25 and/or position signals from the position sensors 22 d and 23 d. Preferably, the notifications for speed stages one, two and three are individually distinct from each other, and the notifications for speed stages eleven, twelve, and thirteen are individually distinct from each other as discussed above with respect to the pattern A, except that the notifications become more noticeable as they approach the endmost speed stages one and thirteen. Thus, in pattern C, the controller 25 activates the front derailleur 23 to produce sound at the endmost speed stages that corresponds to the lowest and the highest speed stages and at the two speed stages immediately preceding the lowest and the highest speed stages.

In pattern D of FIG. 4, the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 only provides a total of four notifications: at one speed stage lower than and adjacent to the synchro-shift speed point, at one speed stage higher than and adjacent to the synchro-shift speed point, at the lowest speed stage and at the highest speed stage. Thus, in this example, these four notifications occur while the bicycle transmission is in speed stages one, three, five and thirteen. These speed stages can be determined by the position sensors 22 d and 23 d or processing results. Preferably, the notifications for the endmost speed stage one and thirteen are distinct from the notifications at the speed stages three and five, which occur prior to the synchro-shift speed point.

In pattern E of FIG. 4, the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 only provides a total of four notifications: at one lower speed stage prior to the synchro-shift speed point, at one upper speed stage prior to the synchro-shift speed point, at the lowest speed stage and at the highest speed stage of the speed stages. Pattern E is the same as pattern D, discussed above, except that the notifications at one speed stage prior to the synchro-shift speed point only occur after the controller 25 has determined to perform the synchro-shift operation but before the synchro-shift operation is actually performed, as in pattern B.

Referring back to FIG. 3, preferably, various parameters for the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 can be changed from a default setting by the user to provide a customized notification. The various features of the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 can also be customized by attaching a personal computer to the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 via a communication port (e.g., the input port 50). In particular, the controller 25 further includes a predetermined condition selection component 55 and a notification pattern selection component 56. In the illustrated embodiment, the predetermined condition selection component 55 and the notification pattern selection component 56 are provided by software stored in the memory 54 and executed by the processor 53. Basically, a user activates these components 55 and 56 by using the control buttons B1, B2 and B3 of the cycling computer 24, or by using a personal computer.

Preferably, as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, these components 55 and 56 produce menu screens that guide the user step by step through the setup process of selecting the user settable operating parameters for the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12.

Preferably, the predetermined condition selection component 55 includes a plurality of user settable predetermined conditions, as illustrated in FIG. 7, for selection by the control buttons B1, B2 and B3 (e.g., the user input device) as the preselected predetermined condition. In the example illustrated in FIG. 7, a screen image is displayed by the cycling computer 24 to provide a rider or other user with options to customize the predetermined condition for notification. In this illustrated, the rider or user can select three options for the predetermined condition. Only three options are illustrated for the sake of brevity. Of course, the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 can provide fewer or more options for the predetermined condition. Also the rider or user is not limited to selecting only one of the options as the predetermined condition. Rather the rider or user can select all of the options if desired. Here, the three illustrated options include: (1) a speed stage before a synchro-shift speed point; (2) a speed stage after a synchro-shift speed point; and (3) an endmost speed stage. Other options for the predetermined condition include, but are not limited to, initiation of a synchro-shift operation.

Preferably, the notification pattern selection component 56 includes a plurality of user settable notification patterns, as illustrated in FIG. 8, for selection by the control buttons B1, B2 and B3 (e.g., the user input device) among the plurality of user settable notification patterns. In the example illustrated in FIG. 8, a screen image is displayed by the cycling computer 24 to provide a rider or other user with options to customize the notification pattern for notification. Some of the basic notification patterns are illustrated in FIG. 4. In particular, the notification patterns include, but not limited to, (1) a single notification at the speed stages selected as predetermined conditions (e.g., pattern D in FIG. 4); (2) a double notification at the speed stages selected as predetermined conditions (not shown in FIG. 4); (3) a triple notification at the speed stages selected as predetermined conditions (e.g., patterns A and C in FIG. 4); and (4) a single notification before the speed stages pass the synchro-shift speed point (upon a shift trigger input at the speed stages selected as predetermined conditions) (e.g., patterns B and E in FIG. 4). Preferably, additional screen images are displayed by the cycling computer 24 or personal computer to provide a user with other options to customize the notification pattern for notification. For example, an additional screen image can be displayed to allow the user to select continuous notification, intermittent notifications, or a one-time notification for a prescribed period of time. Clearly, the notification pattern selection component 56 can be configured to provide the user with a wide variety of options for customizing the pattern of the notification.

Referring to FIG. 11, the control processing executed by the controller 25 of the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 for inputting user selectable parameters will now be discussed. Basically, in step S31, the user will bring up a customization menu (not shown) on the display 49 of the cycling computer 24 to provide the user with options to customize the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12. Then using a series of displays, such as the ones shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the user selects the desired setting, which results in the selected parameters being received by the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 as indicated in step S32. Each time the user sets a new parameter, the controller 25 stores the user setting in the memory 54 as indicated in step S33.

Referring to FIG. 9, the control processing executed by the controller 25 of the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 for producing a notification while in the automatic shifting mode will now be discussed. As mentioned above, the controller 25 does not activate the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 to produce a notification when it is determined that the predetermined condition does not exist. In other words, the controller 25 does not activate the front derailleur 23 to produce a notification sound when it is determined that the predetermined condition does not exist.

In step S1, all of the parameters set by the user are uploaded, detected values and/or flags are cleared from memory. Then the process proceeds to step S2.

In step S2, the controller 25 receives signals from the position sensors 22 d and 23 d or other gear positioning detecting devices to determine the current gear ratio of the bicycle transmission based on the current positions of the rear and front derailleurs 22 and 23. Then the process proceeds to step S3.

In step S3, the controller 25 determines the operating or running condition(s) of the bicycle 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 25 determines the operating or running condition(s) of the bicycle 10 using the crank rotational speed sensor 28 and/or the wheel rotational speed sensor 29 as well as other sensors as needed and/or desired. Typically, the most relevant parameter in determining when to shift is the rider's cadence, which is determined by the crank rotational speed sensor 28 in the illustrated embodiment. Of course, the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 can be used with any automatic shifting control program. Also since automatic shifting control programs are well known and different control programs use different parameters for shifting, the further details of the automatic shifting control program will be omitted for the sake of brevity.

In step S4, the controller 25 determines whether the predetermined condition exists. As mentioned above, the predetermined condition can be either a default setting or can be selectively set by the rider or user. In the example illustrated in FIG. 7, the rider or user can select among options for the predetermined condition. Preferably, as mentioned above, the predetermined condition includes at least one of the conditions that the bicycle transmission has reached a speed stage before a speed stage of the synchro-shift speed point, a speed stage after a speed stage of the synchro-shift speed point, and an endmost speed stage.

In step S4, if the controller 25 determines that the predetermined condition exists, then the process proceeds to step S5, where the notification is outputted by the front derailleur 23. On the other hand, in step S4, if the controller 25 determines that the predetermined condition does not exists, then the process proceeds to step S6.

In step S6, the controller 25 determines whether the operating or running conditions of the bicycle 10 satisfy a shift condition. If a shift condition exists, the process proceeds to step S7. If a shift condition does not exist, then the process proceeds to step S8.

In step S7, the controller 25 outputs a shift signal to one or both of the rear and front derailleurs 22 and 23 to activate the motor 22 e and/or the motor 23 e to perform the appropriate shift. Then the process proceeds to step S8.

In step S8, the controller 25 determines whether any settings have been changed by the user, due to a shifting operation, due to a detection signal from a sensor, or otherwise. If settings have changed, then the process proceeds to step S9 where the settings are updated and stored in memory. If the settings remain unchanged, then the process returns to step S2.

Referring to FIG. 10, the control processing executed by the controller 25 of the bicycle shift notification apparatus 12 for producing a notification while in the manual shifting mode will now be discussed. In step S21, all of the parameters set by the user are uploaded, detected values and/or flags are cleared from memory. Then the process proceeds to step S22.

In step S22, the controller 25 receives signals from the position sensors 22 d and 23 d or other gear positioning detecting devices to determine the current gear ratio of the bicycle transmission based on the current positions of the rear and front derailleurs 22 and 23. Then the process proceeds to step S23.

In step S23, the controller 25 determines if the predetermined condition exists. As mentioned above, the predetermined condition can be either a default setting or can be selectively set by the rider or user. If the controller 25 determines that the predetermined condition exists, then the process proceeds to step S24, where the corresponding notification sound is outputted by the front derailleur 23. On the other hand, in step S23, if the controller 25 determines that the predetermined condition does not exist, then the process returns to step S22.

Referring to FIG. 12, the front derailleur 23 produces the notifications, as described above. FIG. 12 shows the chain guide 23 f, the motor 23 e, and a wire 23 c, which leads to the controller 25 and is part of the wire harness 35. The motor 23 e actuates the front derailleur 23, and sound made by the front derailleur 23 when the motor 23 e actuates the front derailleur 23 according to the preselected notification pattern provides the notification. The sound of the notification is produced by vibrations generated by the motor 23 e itself and other moving parts when the motor 23 e is actuated. That is, the motor 23 e moves the chain guide 23 f laterally, and sound made by the front derailleur 23 when the motor 23 e moves the chain guide 23 f according to a preselected notification pattern provides a notification. As mentioned above, since the vibrations may be transmitted by the bicycle frame 27, a notification may be sensed haptically and audibly by the rider. When producing a notification, the controller 25 activates the front derailleur 23 so that a notification is produced but the drive chain 26 is not moved by the chain guide 23 f during a notification. That is, the controller 25 activates the front derailleur 23 so that the motor 23 e produces a notification without contact between the chain guide 23 f and the drive chain 26.

A notification involves a predetermined pattern of movement of the chain guide 23 f to produce a distinctive sound that differs from the routine sound of shifting gears. That is, actuation of the front derailleur 23, or motorized transmission device, is different in the operation of changing a gear ratio than in the operation of producing the notification, so that sound produced by the front derailleur 23 when producing a notification can be distinguished from the sound of changing the gear ratio. The pattern of movement can be varied to vary the sound of the notification, as described above in the description of FIG. 4. Thus, each predetermined notification pattern involves operating the motor 23 e and moving the chain guide 23 f in an operation other than a gear shifting operation. Each notification pattern includes moving the chain guide 23 f laterally with the motor 23 e in opposite directions without contacting a drive chain 26 with the chain guide 23 f. That is, preselected notification pattern is selected such that, when the notification is produced, the controller 25 operates the motor 23 e to produce sound while maintaining a current gear ratio of the front derailleur 23, or motorized transmission device.

FIGS. 13A and 13B show inner and outer positions of the chain guide 23 f with respect to the chain 26, respectively. FIGS. 13A and 13B show innermost and outermost positions where the chain guide 23 f is located before being reversed when being moved laterally in opposite directions to produce an audible notification. There is no contact between the chain guide 23 f and the chain 26 at either of the innermost our outermost positions of FIGS. 13A and 13B. A normal position of the chain guide 23 f is such that the chain 26 is substantially centered between the sides of the chain guide 23 f.

In one example of a notification pattern, the chain guide 23 f is moved from the normal position to the inner position of FIG. 13A, then oppositely to the outer position of FIG. 13B, and then back to the normal position (not shown). Such a movement pattern could, for example, be the movement of relatively short duration that is represented by the relatively small stars in the lower section of FIG. 4. In a movement pattern of intermediate duration, which can correspond to the intermediate stars of FIG. 4, the chain guide 23 f can be moved from the normal position to the inner position of FIG. 13A, then oppositely to the outer position of FIG. 13B, then oppositely to the inner position of FIG. 13A, and then back to the normal position. Finally, in a movement pattern of relatively long duration, which can correspond to the relatively large stars of FIG. 4, the chain guide 23 f can be moved from the normal position to the to the inner position of FIG. 13A, then oppositely to the outer position of FIG. 13B, then oppositely to the inner position of FIG. 13A, then back to the outer position of FIG. 13B, and then back to the normal position. An infinite variety of movement patterns can be developed by varying the number of movements and the number of reversals of the chain guide 23 f to vary the sound produced by the front derailleur 23. Alternatively, as in patterns B, D, and E of FIG. 4, all the notifications can be the same.

In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term “comprising” and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps. The foregoing also applies to words having similar meanings such as the terms, “including”, “having” and their derivatives. Also, the terms “part,” “section,” “portion,” “member” or “element” when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts. As used herein, the term “upshift” refers to a change in a gear ratio of a transmission that results in the bicycle wheels rotating faster per rotation of the crank arms. As used herein, the term “downshift” refers to a change in a gear ratio of a transmission that results in the bicycle wheels making fewer rotations per rotation of the crank arms.

While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the size, shape, location or orientation of the various components can be changed as needed and/or desired so long as they do not substantially their intended function. Components that are shown directly connected or contacting each other can have intermediate structures disposed between them unless specifically stated otherwise. The functions of one element can be performed by two, and vice versa unless specifically stated otherwise. The structures and functions of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. It is not necessary for all advantages to be present in a particular embodiment at the same time. Every feature which is unique from the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, also should be considered a separate description of further inventions by the applicant, including the structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such feature(s). Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

While the invention has been described in detail with respect to specific embodiments, those skilled in the art, upon attaining an understanding of the specific embodiments, may readily conceive of alterations, variations, and equivalents to these embodiments. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be assessed as that of the appended claims and their equivalents. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A bicycle shift notification apparatus comprising: a transmission state determining component that determines a current operating state of a bicycle transmission that has a plurality of speed stages; a bicycle derailleur that produces a notification based on a determination of the current operating state by the transmission state determining component; and a controller operatively coupled to the bicycle derailleur, wherein the controller activates the bicycle derailleur to produce the notification in accordance with a preselected notification pattern based on a determination that a predetermined condition exists.
 2. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controller determines whether the predetermined condition is satisfied, and the predetermined condition includes at least that the bicycle transmission has reached a speed stage before a speed stage of a synchro-shift speed point.
 3. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the bicycle derailleur includes a motor, and the motor actuates the bicycle derailleur, and wherein sound made by the bicycle derailleur when the motor actuates the bicycle derailleur according to the preselected notification pattern provides the notification.
 4. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the bicycle derailleur includes a chain guide configured to move a drive chain by operation of the motor, and when producing the notification, the controller activates the bicycle derailleur so that the notification is produced but the drive chain is not moved by the chain guide during the notification.
 5. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the controller activates the bicycle derailleur so that the motor produces the notification without contact between the chain guide and the drive chain.
 6. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the bicycle derailleur includes a chain guide, and the preselected notification pattern includes moving the chain guide in opposite directions without contacting a drive chain with the chain guide.
 7. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controller activates a motor of the bicycle derailleur to produce the notification before a start of a shift to a synchro-shift speed point from a speed stage immediately adjacent to the synchro-shift speed point.
 8. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the bicycle derailleur is a front derailleur.
 9. A bicycle shift notification apparatus comprising: a motorized transmission device that has a plurality of speed stages; and a controller operatively coupled to the motorized transmission device, wherein the controller activates a motor of the motorized transmission device to produce an audible notification in accordance with a preselected notification pattern based on a determination that a predetermined condition exists.
 10. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the motorized transmission device includes a chain guide for moving a drive chain, the chain guide is moved by the motor, and the predetermined notification pattern involves operating the motor and moving the chain guide in an operation other than a gear shifting operation.
 11. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the motorized transmission device includes a chain guide, which is configured to move a drive chain by operation of the motor, and when producing the audible notification, the controller activates the chain guide according to the preselected notification pattern so that the audible notification is produced without contact between the drive chain and the chain guide.
 12. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the preselected notification pattern is selected such that, when the audible notification is produced, the controller operates the motor to produce sound while maintaining a current gear ratio of the motorized transmission device.
 13. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the controller determines whether the predetermined condition is satisfied, and the predetermined condition includes at least that the motorized transmission device has reached a speed stage before a speed stage of a synchro-shift speed point.
 14. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the controller activates the motor of the motorized transmission device to produce the audible notification before a start of a shift to a synchro-shift speed point from a speed stage immediately adjacent to the synchro-shift speed point.
 15. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the motorized transmission device includes a front bicycle derailleur, and the motor actuates the front bicycle derailleur.
 16. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the motorized transmission device includes a chain guide, and the preselected notification pattern includes moving the chain guide in opposite directions without contacting a drive chain with the chain guide.
 17. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the bicycle shift notification apparatus includes a transmission state determining component that is operatively coupled to the motorized transmission device, the transmission state determining component determines a current operating state of the motorized transmission device, and the predetermined condition is a condition of the motorized transmission device.
 18. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 9, wherein actuation of the motorized transmission device serves, in separate operations, to change a gear ratio and to produce the audible notification.
 19. The bicycle shift notification apparatus according to claim 18, wherein actuation of the motorized transmission device is different in the operation to change a gear ratio than in the operation to produce the audible notification so that sound produced by the motorized transmission device when producing a notification is distinct from that produced when changing the gear ratio. 